Casablanca, the cosmopolitan heart of Morocco, is a city where stories unfold at every corner, a place where history whispers from the Art Deco buildings and the Atlantic breeze carries tales of old. In this definitive guide to Casablanca’s Top Things to Do, we’ll take you beyond the postcard attractions to the soul of this mesmerizing city.
1. Indulge in Opulence: Beachside Hotels in Casablanca
Casablanca’s coastline is speckled with luxurious hotels that offer an oasis of comfort. Picture waking up to the sound of waves, with a panoramic view of the sun glistening over the Atlantic Ocean. Staying in a lavish hotel on the beach is about more than just the view—it’s about experiencing Moroccan hospitality at its finest. Plush interiors, spas that offer traditional Hammam treatments, and pools that stretch towards the horizon promise a stay that’s both invigorating and relaxing. If this taste of luxury has you craving more, consider extending your experience with a 3 days tour from Marrakech to Fes, where the splendor of Morocco unfolds on a grander scale.
2. Architectural Marvel: The Majestic Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque is not just an architectural wonder; it’s a spiritual journey. Standing partly over the ocean, it is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims, inviting visitors to marvel at its grandeur. The mosque’s minaret, the tallest in the world, pierces the sky at 210 meters, guiding visitors to its magnificent doors. Intricate mosaics, carved marbles, and a retractable roof reflect the ingenuity and artistry of Moroccan craftsmanship. For those who wish to delve deeper into the country’s spiritual and architectural heritage, embarking on a Viaje a Marruecos — a journey through Morocco — can offer a broader perspective of its Islamic traditions.
3. Timeless Elegance: A Sojourn at Rick’s Cafe
For film buffs and romantics alike, Rick’s Cafe is a recreation of the famous bar from the classic film “Casablanca.” Nestled in the Old Medina, this establishment offers a chance to step back in time. Sip on a ‘Casablanca Moonlight’ while the piano echoes with tunes that hark back to the golden age of Hollywood. It’s more than a drink; it’s a toast to the timeless elegance of an era bygone.
4. The Pulse of the City: A Walk Down The Corniche
The Corniche is where Casablanca comes to breathe. This boulevard, stretching along the shoreline, is a promenade where the city’s heartbeat can be felt. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and clubs, a stroll here reveals the city’s vibrant, modern life. As you walk, feel the energy of street performers, the joy of families, and the romance of couples etching their memories against the setting sun.
5. Culinary Journey: Savoring Moroccan Cuisine
Moroccan cuisine is a feast for the senses, and Casablanca is the perfect place to try delectable local dishes. From street-side vendors selling steaming snail soup to upscale restaurants offering the finest tagines and couscous, the city’s food scene is rich and varied. Each dish tells a story of Morocco’s diverse history, blending Arab, Berber, and French influences into a palette of flavors. To fully immerse yourself in the gastronomic delights, consider partaking in Morocco desert tours that often include meals in traditional settings, allowing for a taste of authentic Moroccan life.
6. A Shopper’s Haven: Old and New Medinas
Casablanca’s shopping scene offers a tale of two medinas: the Old and the New. The Old Medina encapsulates tradition with its narrow alleys and bustling souks where you can find everything from spices to leather goods. The New Medina, or Habous quarter, presents a more orderly version, with shops selling handicrafts and bakeries offering sweet Moroccan pastries. Both are a shopper’s paradise, where haggling is an art and finding treasures is a given.
7. Urban Tapestry: The Vibrancy of Mohamed V Square
Mohamed V Square is the city’s central hub, a place to witness the everyday drama of Casablanca. Surrounded by public buildings in a blend of French colonial and Moroccan styles, the square is a photographer’s dream. Sit by the fountain and people-watch; it’s an encounter with the city’s diverse tapestry of life, from the hurried steps of businesspeople to the languid strides of the local flâneurs.
8. A Cultural Odyssey: Casablanca’s Museums
To truly understand Casablanca, one must delve into its museums. They are custodians of the city’s history and culture, housing everything from contemporary art to relics of the past. Visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism for a unique perspective on the country’s religious diversity or explore the Villa des Arts for modern artistic expressions. Each museum visit offers a different shade of the city’s multifaceted personality.
In conclusion, Casablanca is more than just a stopover—it’s a destination brimming with life and culture. Each of the top attractions we’ve traversed offers a unique perspective on the city’s heritage and its present-day verve. Casablanca is a place to be savored, a city that invites you to immerse yourself in its luxuries, its streets, its flavors, and its stories.
Whether you’re unwinding in a beachside hotel, marveling at the Hassan II Mosque, or stepping into the allure of Rick’s Cafe, the spirit of Casablanca is one of warmth and intrigue. So take a moment to people-watch in the bustling squares, shop in the historic medinas, and lose yourself in the museums. For the traveler who seeks to experience the essence of Morocco, Casablanca is a treasure trove of memories waiting to be made.